Houston Cougars quarterback Donovan Smith (1) throws a pass in the second quarter of the College Football game against the Cincinnati Bearcats at Nippert Stadium in Cincinnati on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024. © Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
No. 18 Iowa State opens Big 12 play Saturday with a road matchup against Houston (6:30 p.m. Fox Sports 1). Here are the CycloneFanatic Staff Picks for Saturday.
Chris Williams (2-1)
Love the Clones here. And I’d much rather be playing Willie Fritz’ young program in September compared to November. Iowa State 27, Houston 13.
Rob Gray (2-1)
First-year Houston head coach Willie Fritz — as Iowa State offensive coordinator Taylor Mouser said this week —“has won everywhere,” so he’ll likely rebuild the Cougars program into a contender. They’re certainly a far cry from where it’s at right now, and it took a massive step back in last week’s 34-0 loss at Cincinnati. But Houston does have athletes and an above-average defense that could make it tough on the Cyclones early. I still expect ISU to cover with a balanced offensive performance and another takeaway-packed defensive effort. Iowa State 27, Houston 9
Connor Ferguson (3-0)
Iowa State’s young linebackers continue to perform against rushing quarterbacks and limit Houston offensively. The Cyclones come out throwing the ball and establish an early lead in route to a second-straight blowout victory and a 4-0 start. Iowa State 37, Houston 0
Jeff Woody (3-0)
I feel like this game is one where Houston is going to make some plays. Fritz is a good coach and they do have talent. ISU just has more of it, more time playing together, and currently a higher standard of quality across four quarters. Iowa State wins in a game that doesn’t ever feel in doubt. Iowa State 31, Houston 13
Grant Mahoney (3-0)
Donovan Smith has a short leash and gets replaced after he throws a pick on Houston’s third possession. His replacement gives Houston a little life but Heacock and Co. LLC., clamp down and shut them down in the second half. Iowa State 38, Houston 10
Jackson Pence (3-0)
Can this year’s Iowa State team take that next step that teams in years past couldn’t? I think they can. Houston played terribly last week in a 34-0 loss at Cincinnati. So they will be better than they were a week ago. If the Cyclones come in with a good game plan, execute, and avoid turnovers, this is likely a three-touchdown game. Rocco Becht throws a pair of touchdowns to Higgins and Noel and the 3-headed monster at running back with Abu Sama, Carsen Hansen, and Jaylon Jackson run for 150+ yards. Jon Heacock and Co. remember what happened when they faced Donavon Smith three years ago and shut him down from the beginning. It sets up for a magical night at Jack Trice Stadium against the Baylor Bears next Saturday. Iowa State 31, Houston 13
